Scenic Drives

Any time of year is the perfect time to take a scenic drive through the Adirondacks. And boy, do we have some amazing scenery. Hop in the car and check out some of the great routes below.

Make a day of it

Of course, driving is fun, but so is hiking. So how about stopping to hit a trail along the way? Try one of these short 1-2 hour hikes in combination with your travels and you'll get the best of both worlds. And we know you'll get hungry somewhere along the way, so why not check out the many local restaurants and farmers markets you'll encounter?

All roads lead back to the High Peaks - so you probably should plan to book a stay while you're here.

Lots of artists live in the Jay area, we think it's the lovely scenery they find so inspiring. Forest, farm, and mountain views. Many art and pottery studios to browse through. Don't miss the Jay Covered Bridge! Start at Jay Village Green Park. Turn R...

Some extraordinarily beautiful sweeping vistas in what is still farm country, even in the High Peaks. Stop by the Uhlein Forest, home of the Cornell University Sugar Maple Research headquarters, and pick up some maple-y goodies. 6.2 miles there and back.

Drive or ride up the historic Whiteface Veterans' Memorial Highway taking you to the top of New York's fifth-highest peak at 4,867 feet. At the top, be sure to check out the Castle Cafe and Gift Shop for great views, local bites, souvenirs and more...

Cycling River Road boasts excellent views in both directions for a 4.1 mile one way or 8.2 mile down and back route. Running Run along the Ausable River as it flows in and out along the road. Catch breathtaking views of the High Peaks and Ski Jumps...

One side is a quiet country road, while the other half runs through a scenic valley. Many different river locations, from intimate glimpses to broad vistas with a mountain background. Services in Keene and Upper Jay. 14 mile loop. DIRECTIONS: Starting...

Cycling Cruise the hills of three towns and test yourself on the Ironman Bike Loop. Real Ironmen and Ironwomen do this twice! LENGTH: 56 mile loop. DIRECTIONS: Take Route 73 south out of Lake Placid, pass the Cascade Lakes, and head down the infamous...

Start at the easy landmark of the Whiteface Mountain Ski Center, and explore the back roads of the stunning Jay area. Don't miss the Jay Rapids and the famous covered bridge! LENGTH: 20 mile loop with side trips. Open views of the AuSable River and...

Begin or end the scenic possibilities with the high vantage point of the ski jumps' 120 meter tower. Follow the river with this quiet, flat loop with abundant photo opportunities. The Ausable River is on one side, and many brooks on the other. The...

The scenery along the Northway is quite breathtaking and offers some great views of varying foliage along the route. Then discover our delightful two lane country roads and enchanting small towns. Approximate travel TIME 2 hours. LENGTH: 31 miles for...

Some of our most dramatic destinations along the Adirondack Coast. Behold the glory of the "Grand Canyon of the East," Au Sable Chasm, with multiple ways to enjoy the different vantage points and backdrops. Try hiking to the glorious viewpoint of the...

Stunning scenery on the aptly named Bonnieview Avenue. Quiet two lane roads that are spectacular in the autumn. LENGTH: 14.5 miles. DIRECTIONS: At the four way stop in the center of Wilmington, continue straight from Route 86, north, for about six...